The capital of Minnesota has a striking downtown skyline and landmarks like the Science Museum and the grand Cathedral. Local restaurants and shops fill its active center.
Walk across Charles Bridge at sunrise to see statues of saints silhouetted against the morning sky. Climb the 287 steps to the Old Town Hall Tower for views of red rooftops and church spires stretching toward Petřín Hill. Watch the Astronomical Clock strike the hour as crowds gather below to see its moving figures. Ride tram 22 past baroque buildings to Prague Castle, where changing of the guard occurs daily at noon. Buy trdelník from street vendors near the Jewish Quarter – sweet dough rolled in cinnamon sugar, often filled with ice cream.
Top Attractions in Prague Prague Castle covers 70,000 square meters, making it the largest ancient castle complex in the world. Entry to the grounds costs 250 CZK, while St. Vitus Cathedral remains free to enter during morning Mass. The adjacent Golden Lane displays medieval workshops and armor collections in tiny colorful houses. Across the river, the National Museum’s new wing hosts rotating science exhibits alongside permanent displays of minerals and meteorites. For a unique perspective, take the elevator to the Žižkov Television Tower’s observation deck at 93 meters high.
Walking Routes and Public Transport Start at Wenceslas Square and follow the Royal Route past Týn Church to reach the Charles Bridge in 25 minutes. Purchase a 24-hour public transport pass for 120 CZK to use trams, buses, and metro lines. Tram 17 circles major neighborhoods like Vinohrady and Holešovice, passing art nouveau buildings and the Vltava River. Avoid using taxis near tourist areas – many drivers charge inflated rates. Download the PID Lítačka app for real-time tram locations and route planning.
Local Foods and Dining Fried cheese sandwiches (smažený sýr) appear on nearly every pub menu, typically served with tartar sauce and fries. Try traditional beef goulash in bread bowls at Lokál Dlouhááá, a restaurant with communal tables and unpasteurized Pilsner Urquell on tap. Farmers markets operate Tuesday through Saturday at Náplavka waterfront, selling honey cakes and Moravian wines. Most cafes charge 45-60 CZK for espresso, with free refills uncommon. Note that "Czech pancakes" (palačinky) are thin crepes, usually filled with jam or ice cream.
Seasonal Considerations December temperatures often drop below freezing, but Christmas markets on Old Town Square sell mulled wine and handmade ornaments until January 6. In March, prepare for sudden rain showers and fewer crowds at popular sites like the Lennon Wall. Summer boat tours run hourly from Čechův Bridge, with some including live jazz music. Many museums close on Mondays, including the Mucha Museum and Kafka Museum. The Prague Spring music festival in May brings classical concerts to churches and concert halls citywide.
Practical Tips Carry coins for public restrooms – most charge 10-15 CZK per use. English menus are widely available, but learning basic Czech phrases like "dobrý den" (hello) earns smiles. Avoid exchanging money at airport kiosks where rates are unfavorable. Hostels near Florenc station provide affordable lodging with metro access. For emergencies, dial 112 – operators speak English.
